SMITH & WESSON, DOUBLE ACTION FRONTIER 44/40 CALIBER, MODEL INTRODUCED IN 1880

Smith & Wesson was an aggressive manufacturer,, closely watching trends and opportunities for business through new model development. By the late 1870’s, the double action feature on revolvers was the latest trend in U.S. production. The Single action model was here to stay, but all manufacturers wanted to offer the newest form of revolvers along with the old trusted models. Colt had introduced the 1877 Model in .38 and .41, and met with initial success. Also the 1878 DA Model in Frontier Calibers . Smith & Wesson introduced their 1st Model Double Action in their proven caliber of .44 Russian. D.B. Wesson wanted an edge in 1880 S&W introduced their FRONTIER DA Model chambered in 44/40. The marketing theory was since it could be paired with the Winchester Rifle or Carbine, and in a large Frontier Caliber, it would be very successful. Not all plans are totally successful, the initial take off was less than expected. Only 15,000 models were manufactured, in a separate Serial Range. Therefore today, they are a very scarce model, and highly sought after by collectors This example, Serial No. 188X was manufactured in 1881 , and remains all ORIGINAL in it’s configuration. Factory Nickel finish, with about 90% still present. A 4 inch barrel, with Monogram Hard Rubber Grips, all matching. Case color is still seen on the hammer and trigger, as well as Blue  on trigger guard. IMPORTANT: the working actions are all 100% correct, NO mechanical problems. that includes the star ejector raising to eject spent cartridges, then descending back into the cylinder. Double Action and Single Action option both work correctly. All factory applied markings are clear and present, barrel address and matching serial numbers. This is a very suitable piece for any Frontier Revolver collection, very good condition and has an excellent appearance. this was the most sturdy and mechanically strong Double Action on the Market, in the 44/40 caliber. Please Note: The Frontier Model, besides the caliber is physically different, as the Cylinder is 1-9/16 ” long, which also required a slight lengthening of the frame. The other S&W Double Action chambered for the .44 Russian is a 1-7/16″ Cylinder. Selected by some high profile names to carry. J.W. Hardin was one example.